Obituary for a fallen landmark

Baybrook, Hamilton Mack Laing’s former residence. Murdered by local politicians and wealthy NIMBY landowners. Despite some heavy support (also monetary support) for Baybrook from local, provincial, and national conservation groups, the Town of Comox, led by the Mayor (a practicing lawyer who decided that none of Baybrook’s supporting groups had any legal clout), an excavator tore down one of Comox’s valuable heritage buildings. The rationale being, we presume, “let’s take it down now quickly before anyone really gets organized, because once it’s gone, it’s a done deal.” A victory for those who want their views improved and no parking on “their” streets. A victory for the present elected representatives of Comox, whose motto should be: “It’s all about the money”.

Baybrook is mourned by thousands of citizens of the Comox Valley communities. Shame is to be distributed on an ongoing basis to those responsible, who run businesses in the Valley (something to think about when you need legal work done—maybe use another firm?). And something to think about at the next Comox civic elections. A heartfelt thanks go to all Baybrook’s many supporters including the Mack Laing Preservation Society, Stephen Hume of the Vancouver Sun, and all those who came out to witness and protest the slaughter, even risking arrest.